What does the idea of Singapore mean to you?
Does the name make you think of a vibrant, lively and ever-growing island city-state? Or does it conjure up visions of temples, colour and golden beaches? Or perhaps lush, untamed tropical landscapes with abundant wildlife comes to mind? That’s the thing about the Republic of Singapore, it has many sides and much to offer. Not least because it covers 62 smaller islets alongside the main island.
Here are just five reasons to fall in love with Singapore.
Dedicated to delighting visitors
Singapore works hard to make sure its visitors are well looked after, extending the highest possible standards of customer service. Singapore’s Changi airport is regularly recognised as the best in the world (both from industry and consumer bodies). The airport has sleeping areas, a swimming pool, cinema, market food stalls, beauty and reflexology centres, as well as children’s play areas and a nature trail!
The best things come in small packages
This small country packs a mighty punch in its history, landscape and strong national identity, and you can see so much of this without having to travel far.
For example, though Singapore is famous for its stunning architecture and high-end shops, you can still haggle for bargains at timeless local street markets. Also, you could be wandering its bustling city streets, then within a short time move to lounging on vast stretches of flawless sand. It is easy to get around using the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), buses, taxis and water taxis.
Singapore is simply a beach lovers heaven, especially between November and March, when the climate is perfect for swimming, water sports and other activities. However, there are plenty of places to go for privacy and long, solitary walks, too.
All that is modern and marvellous
All around Singapore you can see how visionary architects have used cutting edge creativity to develop the skyline. This is especially true of Marina Bay Sands and Sands Sky Park (nicknamed the “celestial surfboard”) with its awe-inspiring infinity pool views across the city.
Follow this link to research these world-renown developments in more detail.
Meanwhile, at ground level, strict laws and an army of 50,000 staff maintain Singapore’s reputation for having the cleanest streets in the world.
Fabulous food
If all this is not enough to tempt you to book a flight, Singapore has some of the best restaurants and national cuisine of any country. What’s even more tempting is that this diverse and delicious food is also highly affordable.
Such is the wonder of dining out in this country, travel writer Ben Groundwater believes “Food isn’t a reason to visit Singapore – it’s the reason.”
Abundant natural charms
For all the wonders that humankind has brought to Singapore, for many visitors, its primary attraction is a network of islands, places that time forgot.
One of the most popular is Pulau Ubin, which provides a charming window into 1960s Singapore. Sentosa is a well-developed island, including hosting Singapore’s Universal Studios. In sharp contrast, St. John’s Island is a former quarantine station and offers secluded beaches and havens of peace. It’s also a fishing paradise.
To explore Pulau Semakau, which is rich in biodiversity and untamed nature, you have to ask permission of the National Environmental Agency.
Do you fancy spotting seahorses or sharks on a snorkelling adventure? Sisters’ Islands is a popular Marine Park in Singapore.
Clearly, the islands hold adventures and activities, but make sure you use reputable guides and transport. Well thought out travel insurance is a must for any holiday, but particularly if you decide to explore off the beaten track on Singapore’s islands.
Read more about Singapore island adventures with this fascinating guide.
